Chromoblastomycosis Caused by Fonsecaea monophora Mimicking Lichen Planus.

Chromoblastomycosis is a rare fungal infection acquired by traumatic inoculation of pigmented fungi from an environmental source. The polymorphic presentation of chromoblastomycosis may mimic other dermatologic conditions, leading to delays in diagnosis. Thus, histopathology is critical in identifying the presence of fungi and confirming the diagnosis. We present a case of chromoblastomycosis caused by the organism Fonsecaea monophora mimicking a lesion of lichen planus to highlight the importance of histopathology in the diagnosis of this condition.

Wastewater treatment, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions: An operational approach to comparing Barcelona and Mexico City.

This study delves into the critical nexus between wastewater treatment, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. Wastewater treatment is a linchpin of sustainable development, yet its energy-intensive processes contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The research focuses on wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in Mexico City (CDMX) and the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (AMB), exploring the disparities between a developed country and a developing country. The study examines how factors such as water treatment technologies and electricity sources influence carbon emissions. The AMB exhibits superior performance by treating all wastewater, cogenerating energy from the biomass contained in the wastewater and generating 10% fewer emissions, in stark contrast to CDMX, which does not capture the CH4 produced during water treatment, on top of only treating the water of 14% of the city's agglomeration. It underscores the critical implications of WWTP efficiency on climate change and progress toward UN Sustainable Development Goals. Given the limited attention to the Global South, this research serves as a vital contribution to the discourse on sustainability and development.

Recent Developments in Synthesis, Properties, Applications and Recycling of Bio-Based Elastomers.

In 2021, global plastics production was 390.7 Mt; in 2022, it was 400.3 Mt, showing an increase of 2.4%, and this rising tendency will increase yearly. Of this data, less than 2% correspond to bio-based plastics. Currently, polymers, including elastomers, are non-recyclable and come from non-renewable sources. Additionally, most elastomers are thermosets, making them complex to recycle and reuse. It takes hundreds to thousands of years to decompose or biodegrade, contributing to plastic waste accumulation, nano and microplastic formation, and environmental pollution. Due to this, the synthesis of elastomers from natural and renewable resources has attracted the attention of researchers and industries. In this review paper, new methods and strategies are proposed for the preparation of bio-based elastomers. The main goals are the advances and improvements in the synthesis, properties, and applications of bio-based elastomers from natural and industrial rubbers, polyurethanes, polyesters, and polyethers, and an approach to their circular economy and sustainability. Olefin metathesis is proposed as a novel and sustainable method for the synthesis of bio-based elastomers, which allows for the depolymerization or degradation of rubbers with the use of essential oils, terpenes, fatty acids, and fatty alcohols from natural resources such as chain transfer agents (CTA) or donors of the terminal groups in the main chain, which allow for control of the molecular weights and functional groups, obtaining new compounds, oligomers, and bio-based elastomers with an added value for the application of new polymers and materials. This tendency contributes to the development of bio-based elastomers that can reduce carbon emissions, avoid cross-contamination from fossil fuels, and obtain a greener material with biodegradable and/or compostable behavior.

Development and Validation of a Mixed-Reality Simulator for Reducing Biopsy Core Deviation During Simulated Freehand Systematic Prostate Biopsy.

INTRODUCTION: We describe the development and validation of a mixed-reality prostate biopsy (PBx) simulator with built-in guidance aids and real-time 3-dimensional visualization. METHODS: We evaluated our simulator during one-on-one training sessions with urology residents and attendings from 2018 to 2022. Participants performed freehand, side-fire, double-sextant transrectal ultrasound-guided systematic prostate biopsy (sPBx). After a baseline assessment (first set of 12 biopsy cores), participants trained for 25 minutes with visualization and cognitive aids activated. Training was followed by an exit set of 12 biopsy cores without visualization or cognitive aids and afterward, subjective assessment by trainees of the simulator. Deviation is the shortest distance of the center of a core from its intended template location. RESULTS: Baseline deviations (mean ± SD) for residents (n = 24) and attendings (n = 4) were 13.4 ± 8.9 mm and 8.5 ± 3.6 mm ( P < 0.001), respectively. Posttraining deviations were 8.7 ± 6.6 mm and 7.6 ± 3.7 mm ( P = 0.271), respectively. Deviations between baseline and exit were decreased significantly for residents ( P < 0.001) but not for attendings ( P = 0.093). Overall feedback from participants was positive. Confidence in performing a PBx increased in novices after training ( P = 0.011) and did not change among attendings ( P = 0.180). CONCLUSIONS: A new PBx simulator can quantify and improve accuracy during simulated freehand sPBx while providing visualization and graphical feedback. Improved simulated sPBx accuracy could lead to more even distribution of biopsy cores within the prostate when performed in clinical settings, possibly reducing the high risk of missing an existing lesion and thus decreasing the time to initiating treatment, if indicated.

Attitude is everything: keep probe pitch neutral during side-fire prostate biopsy. A simulator study.

OBJECTIVES: To develop and validate on a simulator a learnable technique to decrease deviation of biopsied cores from the template schema during freehand, side-fire systematic prostate biopsy (sPBx) with the goal of reducing prostate biopsy (PBx) false-negatives, thereby facilitating earlier sampling, diagnosis and treatment of clinically significant prostate cancer. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: Using a PBx simulator with real-time three-dimensional visualization, we devised a freehand, pitch-neutral (0°, horizontal plane), side-fire, transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)-guided sPBx technique in the left lateral decubitus position. Thirty-four trainees on four Canadian and US urology programmes learned the technique on the same simulator, which recorded deviation from the intended template location in a double-sextant template as well as the TRUS probe pitch at the time of sampling. We defined deviation as the shortest distance in millimeters between a core centre and its intended template location, template deviation as the mean of all deviations in a template, and mastery as achieving a template deviation ≤5.0 mm. RESULTS: All results are reported as mean ± sd. The mean absolute pitch and template deviation before learning the technique (baseline) were 8.2 ± 4.1° and 8.0 ± 2.7 mm, respectively, and after mastering the technique decreased to 4.5 ± 2.7° (P = 0.001) and 4.5 ± 0.6 mm (P < 0.001). Template deviation was related to mean absolute pitch (P < 0.001) and increased by 0.5 mm on average with each 1° increase in mean absolute pitch. Participants achieved mastery after practising 3.9 ± 2.9 double-sextant sets. There was no difference in time to perform a double-sextant set at baseline (277 ± 102 s) and mastery (283 ± 101 s; P = 0.39). CONCLUSION: A pitch-neutral side-fire technique reduced template deviation during simulated freehand TRUS-guided sPBx, suggesting it may also reduce PBx false-negatives in patients in a future clinical trial. This pitch-neutral technique can be taught and learned; the University of Florida has been teaching it to all Urology residents for the last 2 years.

Visualized Prostate Biopsy: An Intuitive Three-Dimensional User Interface for Systematic and Targeted Biopsy.

Background: Prostate biopsy false negative percentages are 21% to 47% and 16% to 30% for systematic and fused biopsy, respectively. An intuitive three-dimensional (3D) observed user interface may help reduce these percentages by providing real-time guidance and feedback during transrectal or transperineal biopsy. Materials and Methods: We track the moving prostate (including template locations and regions of interest), the transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) probe, and the biopsy device to construct a 3D environment. Users observe, aim, sample, and receive feedback in real time. Using a simulator with simulated TRUS, 48 participants performed freehand systematic prostate biopsy with traditional TRUS guidance and afterward with visualized prostate biopsy (vPBx). Results: During simulated biopsy, vPBx reduced the false negative percentage for a 0.5-mL spherical apical lesion from 52% to 2% (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Preliminary results during simulated systematic biopsy warrant retrofitting the vPBx to actual TRUS equipment as a step toward clinical trials with patients.

Tinea incognito in an urban pediatric population.

Tinea incognito (TI) describes a common dermatophytosis with often atypical clinical features attributed to inappropriate use of topical immunomodulatory agents, usually corticosteroids. Given the high prevalence of TI and limited literature detailing this condition, we conducted a retrospective review of cases of pediatric dermatophytosis presenting to the Faculty Group Practice of the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine (New York, New York), between 2005 and 2016. Among microbiologically confirmed dermatophytosis cases, we found that even with prior treatment, TI often presented with classic features of tinea such as annularity and scale. The majority of cases were treated with oral antifungals, though some were treated with topical antifungals alone. This case series underscores the need to maintain a high clinical suspicion for TI.

The readability, suitability, and content features of eczema action plans in the United States.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Little is known about the reading grade level (readability), appropriateness of design (suitability), and content variability of written eczema action plans (EAPs), which can impact the effectiveness of these patient education tools. Here, we assess the readability, suitability, and content of EAPs currently used by pediatric dermatologists in the United States. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of EAPs submitted by members of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology (n = 26). Readability, suitability, and content of sampled plans were systematically assessed. RESULTS: Mean (SD) reading grade level was 9.0 (2.1); one in five was written at the recommended level of 6th grade or lower. While the majority of EAPs were found to be adequately suitable, one in five was unsuitable and only two superior. Documents scored most poorly in layout/design and learning stimulation. Plans scored best in the categories of content and literacy demand. EAPs focused on similar content themes, though specific recommendations and descriptors of atopic dermatitis (AD) disease states varied considerably. CONCLUSIONS: The health literacy burden of EAPs in the United States could be lowered by improving their readability, incorporating graphics, stimulating reader engagement, and developing standards for how AD flares are defined.

A survey to assess use patterns and perceptions of efficacy of eczema action plans among pediatric dermatologists.

Eczema action plans (EAPs) are written, customizable documents that guide patients through the self-management of atopic dermatitis. Here, we distributed a survey regarding the use patterns and perceptions of eczema action plans to 1068 members of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology and received 87 responses. Although a strong majority of respondents endorsed the ability of EAPs to improve adherence (79%) and improve prevention and/or management of flares (70%), reported rates of EAP editing or provision sharply decline from initial to follow-up visits (61%-33%). The development of a standardized, low-literacy web-based tool could improve the efficacy of EAPs for patients and physicians by improving comprehensibility and retention.

Congenital-type juvenile xanthogranuloma: A case series and literature review.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Congenital juvenile xanthogranulomas are infrequently described in the medical literature. We report three previously unpublished cases and systematically review the literature to better characterize this variant. METHODS: We surveyed English-language articles indexed in MEDLINE (1951-March 2017) and EMBASE (1974-March 2017) for cases of congenital-onset juvenile xanthogranulomas confirmed on histopathology. Cases were divided into two categories: cutaneous only or cutaneous with systemic involvement. RESULTS: We identified 31 cases of congenital juvenile xanthogranulomas involving only the skin and 16 cases with systemic involvement. Congenital juvenile xanthogranulomas involving only the skin were large (> 3 cm), presented with various clinical morphologies, and showed signs of regression by 1 year of age. Atypical clinical presentations included exophytic tumors, infiltrative plaques, agminated plaques, and subcutaneous tumors. Complications included ulceration and anetodermic scarring. Infants with congenital cutaneous juvenile xanthogranulomas who also had systemic involvement typically had multiple cutaneous tumors and hepatic involvement and showed signs of spontaneous regression independent of treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The medical literature supports that congenital juvenile xanthogranulomas behave in a fashion similar to that of juvenile xanthogranulomas of infancy or childhood. Congenital cutaneous juvenile xanthogranulomas with or without systemic involvement spontaneously regress. The varied clinical presentations in the skin may lead to misdiagnosis, inappropriate examination, and unnecessary treatments. Infants with multiple congenital cutaneous juvenile xanthogranulomas should be evaluated for systemic involvement, with a particular focus on the liver, because 72.2% of these children were found to have hepatic juvenile xanthogranulomas.

Raynaud's phenomenon: Current concepts.

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is a transient, acral, vasospastic phenomenon that manifests with characteristic color changes. This vasospasm, classically triggered by cold temperatures, may also be driven by shifts in temperature, climate, or emotional state. Primary RP (PRP) is a common condition without severe sequelae. Secondary RP (SRP), which may be driven by vascular, autoimmune, hematologic, or endocrine etiologies, can result in digital ulceration, irreversible ischemia and necrosis, and secondary infection. This review delineates the clinical manifestations of both primary and secondary RP, as well as the current understanding of RP epidemiology and pathogenesis. Proper examination, including nailfold capillary microscopy, and laboratory workup for secondary causes of RP are also discussed. The traditional armamentarium of therapies used for RP, as well as newer medical and surgical options, is also summarized with particular regard to the clinical evidence for their efficacy.

Neutrophilic urticarial dermatosis as a presenting feature of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

This report describes a case of chronic neutrophilic urticarial dermatosis as a presenting feature of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. When encountered in children, neutrophilic urticarial dermatosis should raise suspicion of autoimmune or autoinflammatory disease.

Clinical evidence for washing and cleansers in acne vulgaris: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: Washing and over-the-counter cleansers are common interventions in acne vulgaris (AV), but the clinical evidence for their benefit is poorly understood. This systematic review presents clinical studies of washing and cleanser efficacy in acne vulgaris to guide treatment recommendations of dermatologists. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We surveyed English-language articles indexed in MEDLINE (1951-March 2017) and EMBASE (1974-March 2017). Articles were required to be prospective studies of a single over-the-counter cleanser or washing intervention in AV with an objective AV outcome measurement published in a peer-reviewed journal. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Fourteen prospective studies representing 671 participants were included in this review. Modalities investigated included face washing frequency, true soap/syndet cleansing bars, antiseptic cleansers, alpha and beta-hydroxy (i.e. salicylic) acid cleansers, and several proprietary formulations. Given the low number of well-performed clinical studies of cleansers and washing, it is difficult to formulate reliable recommendations. We hope that our findings highlight the necessity of further investigation in this area.

The Urology Applicant: An Analysis of Contemporary Urology Residency Candidates.

OBJECTIVE: To better understand today's urology applicant. METHODS: All 2016 Urology Residency Match applicants to the study-participating institutions were provided a survey via email inquiring about their paths to urology, their career aspirations, how they evaluate a training program, and how they perceive residency programs evaluate them. RESULTS: Of a possible 468 applicants registered for the match, 346 applicants completed the survey. Only 8.7% had a mandatory urology rotation, yet 58.4% believed that a mandatory urology rotation would influence their career decision. Most applicants (62.1%) spent more than 8 weeks on urology rotations, and 79.2% completed 2 or more away rotations. Applicants were attracted to urology by the diversity of procedures, prior exposure to the field, and the mix of medicine and surgery, with mean importance scores of 4.70, 4.52, and 4.45 of 5, respectively. Female applicants were more likely to be interested in pediatric urology, trauma or reconstructive urology, and female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. Significant differences in survey results were noted when applicants were separated by gender. Three-fourths of respondents (75.7%) applied to more than 50 residency programs. Applicants ranked operative experience, interactions with current residents, and relationships between faculty and residents as the most important criteria when evaluating training programs. Of the subspecialties, 62.1% of applicants expressed most interest in urologic oncology. At this stage in their career, a significant majority (83.5%) expressed interest in becoming academic faculty. CONCLUSION: This study provides new information that facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of today's urology applicants.

Tick bite mimicking indeterminate cell histiocytosis.

Ticks are a well-known vector for viral, bacterial, and rickettsial infections, many of which are accompanied by cutaneous eruptions, but the bite itself can induce a spectrum of inflammatory reactions, including foreign body granuloma, tick bite alopecia, and cutaneous lymphoid hyperplasia. We describe the development of an indeterminate cell histiocytic infiltrate at the site of a tick bite. Although the etiology of intermediate cell histiocytosis is not well understood, this case raises the possibility that such infiltrates may represent an inflammatory reaction in some patients.